"The jetty bar is unbelievable, with access for swimming in the sea."
Norah from South Africa
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"A beautiful wooden molo with a restaurant and bar located at its end is amazing."
Sylwia from Greece
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"The pool area was amazing"
Susanne from Germany
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5-star beachfront resort with the highest makuti thatched roof on Zanzibar
Dining & Bars
The hotel has three restaurants: the Jetty, serving modern Arabic cuisine on a pier over the Indian Ocean, the A La Carte for fine dining, and the Market Kitchen for international dishes. Three bars include the 1506 Bar and Terrace, the Jetty Bar, and the Baobab Bar, each offering cocktails with sunset views. The rooftop bar provides a dedicated space for evening drinks overlooking the ocean.
Accommodations
The hotel offers 40 suites and 8 residences, each with ocean or garden views from a private balcony or terrace. Each suite combines contemporary and Swahili design under the highest makuti thatched roof on the island. Room amenities include air conditioning, a minibar, a living area, and a bathroom with bidet and shower.
Wellness & Spa
The Zalu spa offers a range of massages, beauty treatments, a sauna, and a hydro shower room. Guests can book body scrubs, full body massages, hammam sessions, and facial treatments. The fitness center is open for workouts, and yoga classes are available on site.
Activities & Entertainment
On-site activities include diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, and cooking classes at the Maisha Cookery Studio. The hotel has a kids club, table tennis, billiards, and evening entertainment with live music and themed dinner nights. The large outdoor infinity pool is the centerpiece of the property, with sun loungers and poolside service.
Business & Family
The hotel has state-of-the-art business facilities and meeting spaces for corporate events and tailored individual planning. Family amenities include a kids club, babysitting services, board games, indoor and outdoor play areas. Accessible parking, valet parking, and wheelchair-accessible rooms are available for guests with disabilities.
Highlights
Location: Nungwi Beach, 58 km from Stone Town
Roof: Highest makuti thatched roof on the island
Dining: Three restaurants including the Jetty over the ocean
Wellness: Zalu spa with sauna and hydro shower
Activities: Swahili cooking lessons at Maisha Cookery Studio
Pool: Large outdoor infinity pool with ocean views
Must-do experiences
Visit Nungwi's Mnarani Natural Aquarium to learn about sea turtles.
Sample fresh seafood at the local market, particularly grilled octopus.
Experience a sunset dhow cruise to enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean.
Explore the Old Slave Market Museum to learn about Zanzibar's history.
Take a cooking class at the Spice Farm and taste local dishes.
Select your room type
The resort offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Sea View Suite King
2 persons
57 sq. feet
Air conditioning
Shower
room details
Garden View Suite King
2 persons
57 sq. feet
Air conditioning
Shower
room details
Partial Sea View Suite King
2 persons
57 sq. feet
Air conditioning
Shower
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
The resort offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.4/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Currency exchange
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Fitness centre
Wind surfing
Diving
Snorkelling
Horseback riding
Cycling
Billiard tables
Darts
Table tennis
Yoga class
Aerobics
Fishing
Guest Parking
Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Services
Paid airport shuttle
Valet parking
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Shops/Commercial services
Welcome drink
Happy hour
Dining
In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area
Picnic area/ Tables
Dinner
Packed lunches
Special diet menus
Business
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Babysitting/Child services
Children's buffet
Board games
Children's pool
Children's play area
Kids club
Game room
Facilities for people with disabilities
Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled
Spa & Leisure
Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Beach umbrellas
Sun loungers
Aqua park
Live entertainment
Sun terrace
Garden area
BBQ facilities
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness centre
Sauna
Turkish bath
Pedicure
Manicure
Waxing
Body scrub
Facial
Treatment room
Body wraps
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage
Room features
Air conditioning
Mini-bar
Soundproofed rooms
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Media
Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
Parquet floor
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Dining Onsite
Essque Zalu Zanzibar offers a delightful array of onsite dining options, where diverse culinary experiences come alive amidst a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests can choose from traditional favorites and global inspirations, all while soaking in breathtaking views of the surrounding beauty.
Market Kitchen
International with African, American, Chinese, British, Italian, and Local influences
Ambiance
Family-friendly and traditional setting
Key Offerings
A la carte breakfast featuring fluffy waffles and chocolate crepes, along with fragrant curries, fresh fish, and Italian-style desserts in the evening.
Reservation
Not needed
Open for breakfast and dinner; hours vary.
The Jetty
Middle Eastern, Seafood, and Pizza with Grill/BBQ options
Ambiance
Family-friendly, traditional, and romantic, situated over the water
Key Offerings
Brunch and dinner options, along with a cocktail hour that invites guests to unwind in a serene setting
Reservation
Not needed
Open for brunch and dinner; hours vary.
Location
Nungwi Beach, Nungwi,
Explore Nungwi
Explore Nungwi: Activities & Attractions
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Baraka Natural Aquarium - Nungwi
11 minutes' walk
Marine life conservation center featuring turtles. Offers educational tours and close encounters with various marine species.
Nungwi Beach
11 minutes' walk
Stunning beaches known for white sands and turquoise waters. Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and exploring tidal pools.
Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond
11 minutes' walk
Conservation site dedicated to turtle rescue. Visitors can learn about turtle preservation and witness their rehabilitation.
Nungwi Lighthouse
11 minutes' walk
Historic lighthouse with picturesque views. A great spot for photography and understanding local maritime history.
Diving with Spanish Dancer Divers
25 minutes' walk
Thrilling diving experiences available for all skill levels. Equipment rental and guided tours are offered for underwater exploration.
Yoga Sessions at ZanziYoga
25 minutes' walk
Relaxing yoga classes set in a serene environment. Perfect for unwinding or starting the day with mindfulness.
Ubora Restaurant & Bar
15 minutes' walk
Casual dining with a mix of local and international cuisine. Known for its fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere.
The Panje Project
25 minutes' walk
Local favorites served in a rustic setting. Offers vegetarian options and is popular for its community-focused initiatives.
The Spice Route
15 minutes' drive
Charming bar featuring live music and themed nights. Ideal for enjoying cocktails and mingling with locals and travelers.
Nungwi Cinema
25 minutes' walk
Family-friendly venue showing both local and international films. A great choice for a relaxed evening out.
Getting around
City Centre
Nungwi 11 min · 3000 ft
Airports
Kisauni (ZNZ) 95 min · 39.0 mi
Pemba (PMA) 115 min · 47.5 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:30
Check-out
from 04:00-12:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, German, Italian, Russian, Swahili
Number of rooms:
47
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Essque Zalu Zanzibar from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 1196 verified reviews
9.1 /10
Perfect
90 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
8.8/10
Comfort
8.8/10
Facilities
8.4/10
Free WiFi
8.0/10
Location
8.4/10
Staff
9.0/10
Value for money
8.0/10
Pros
Sea view
Helpful staff
High-quality food
Cons
Poor cleaning
Not good value
Guest reviews
based on 439 reviews
8.3/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About Essque Zalu Zanzibar
Are there shuttle services available to nearby beaches since there's no beach adjacent to the resort?
10 January 2024
Free shuttle services are provided to and from the nearest beach, which is about 15 minutes from the resort. The shuttle schedule can be arranged at the reception.
What are the dining options regarding vegan or vegetarian meals, and can I opt for just breakfast instead of half board?
15 February 2024
Half board typically includes breakfast and dinner, but breakfast only can be arranged. A variety of delicious vegan and vegetarian options are available, accommodating requests for local ingredients.
Can arrangements be made for airport transfers, and what are the costs involved?
22 March 2024
Airport transfers can be organized at a total cost of $120. Booking requires names and flight details to ensure smooth transportation.
Is there an on-site spa, and what types of treatments are offered?
30 April 2024
Yes, the spa offers a range of treatments including traditional African rituals, beauty treatments, and unique sensory experiences. Signature massages and facials are popular options.
Are there opportunities to engage in local cooking lessons during a stay?
8 May 2024
Cooking lessons are available at the Maisha Cookery Studio, where guests can learn to prepare authentic Zanzibar recipes in a traditional setting.
What types of family-friendly accommodations are recommended for larger groups?
19 June 2024
For families, three-bedroom villas or a combination of two garden view rooms are great choices, ensuring comfort for everyone.
Can unique experiences be expected, or are there tailored activities available throughout the stay?
25 July 2024
Guests can look forward to a range of unique experiences designed to enhance their stay. Activities reflect the local culture and environment, with new offerings added regularly.
Is it possible to enjoy sunset views from the resort?
11 August 2024
Yes, the resort provides stunning views of the sunset, creating a perfect setting for relaxation and memorable moments.
What are the options for dining and activities during festive seasons?
17 September 2024
During festive seasons, the resort features curated experiences, including themed dinners and entertainment designed to reflect the island's vibrant culture.
Are shisha or hookah lounges available for guests to enjoy?
23 October 2024
Unfortunately, shisha is not permitted in Zanzibar, so there are no lounges offering this service.
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